Shallow Waters: Australia's Naval Engagement with the East African Coast

This paper explores Australia's naval engagement with the East African coastal subregion. The research evaluates two main issues: first, whether an increased naval presence in the region could provide further strategic opportunities for Australia; and second, whether Australia's modest engagement leaves it vulnerable to maritime threats such as piracy. The paper finds that Australia's limited engagement with the East Africa coast is a critical oversight that constrains its ability to take advantage of opportunities and to defend its national security interests against potential threats emanating from the region.